Jazz

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Curriculum Requirements - 2011-2012 (Click Here)

Program Description

The Associate in Applied Science Music Jazz program at Villa Maria College is Western New York’s only music degree program specializing in jazz. Students work one-on-one with professional jazz musicians in developing their technique and solo improvisational skills, as well as performing in jazz ensembles. Courses focus on learning harmony and its practical applications, cultivating aural skills, and exploring the history of jazz-America’s indigenous musical art form.

Program Facilities

The Music Department has special facilities for performance, practice, and recording. A 168-seat recital hall is the primary performance space for concerts. This hall contains two Steinway concert grand pianos and a 2 manual Delaware pipe organ. The recital hall is wired to the adjacent recording studio for capturing both live and studio performances.  An ensemble room contains electronic keyboards, a state-of-the-art sound system, guitar and bass amps, and a variety of drums and other percussion instruments. This room is used for jazz and percussion ensemble rehearsals, as well as for classes and lessons. There are fifteen acoustically-paneled practice rooms available for students. Three of these rooms are available for practice with percussion and double bass. The other practice rooms are equipped with pianos. The MIDI lab/digital recording studio houses state-of-the-art hardware and software including an iMac, Mbox, and MIDI keyboard controller at student workstations. Software programs including ProTools, Reason, and Garage Band are available at the workstations for students’ use in creating their own musical projects. The master/instructor station included a Macintosh G5 computer, a 24 channel mixing board, a Yamaha Motif synthesizer and powered audio monitors. The studio has a recording booth, and a collection of microphones, instruments, and amplifiers used for recording projects and the studio is wired to the adjacent recital hall. 

Program Requirements

• Attain a minimum Grade of C in all music courses

• Fulfill recital seminar and concert attendance requirements

• Complete all Music Department outcomes assessment activities

• Develop a portfolio according to Music Department guidelines


Career Potential & Employment Outlook

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment for musicians, singers, and related workers is expected to grow by 11% during the 2006-2016 decade.  Although competition is keen, talented individuals who are skilled in multiple instruments and styles will have the best job prospects.

Professional jazz musicians’ careers typically include combinations of performing, teaching, recording, and composing/arranging. Talent, versatility, persistence, and networking skills are necessary for professional success in this field.

For more information or to enroll, contact:

Kevin Donovan
Director of Enrollment Management
Phone: 716.961.1870
Email: kdonovan@villa.edu